1996 Ford Contour Owner's Guide - Everything You Need to Know About Safety Restraints, Features, Driving and More

Table of Contents
Introductory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Safety Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Starting Your Contour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Warning Lights and Gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Instrument Panel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Steering Column Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Electronic Sound Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Driving Your Contour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Roadside Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Reporting Safety Defects . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Servicing Your Contour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Quick Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Service Station Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 292
1996

Introductory Information
Ford’s Commitment to You
At Ford Motor Company, excellence is the continuous
commitment to achieve the best result possible. It is dedication
to learning what you want, determination to develop the right
concept, and execution of that concept with care, precision, and
attention to detail. In short, excellence means being the standard
by which others are judged.
Our Guiding Principles
n Quality comes first. For your satisfaction, the quality of our
1
products and services must be our number one priority.
n You are the focus of everything we do. Our work must be
done with you in mind, providing better products and
services than our competition.
n Continuous improvement is essential to our success. We
must strive for excellence in everything we do: in our
products — in their safety and value — and in our services,
our human relations, our competitiveness, and our
profitability.
n Employee involvement is our way of life. We are a team.
We must treat one another with trust and respect.
n Dealers and suppliers are our partners. We must maintain
mutually beneficial relationships with dealers, suppliers, and
our other business associates.
n Integrity is never compromised. Our conduct worldwide
must be pursued in a manner that is socially responsible and
commands respect for its integrity and for its positive
contributions to society.
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Things to Know About Using This Guide
Congratulations on the purchase of your new vehicle. This
guide has information about the equipment and the options for
your new vehicle. You may not have bought all of the options
available to you. If you do not know which information applies
to your vehicle, talk to your dealer.
This guide describes equipment and gives specifications for
equipment that was in effect when this guide was approved for
printing. Ford may discontinue models or change specifications
or design without any notice and without incurring obligation.
As you read through your owner guide, carefully read all
Warnings because they tell you how toavoid endangering
yourself, your passengers, and other people.
NOTES and WARNINGS
NOTES give you additional information about the subject
matter you are referencing.
WARNINGS remind you to be especially careful in those areas
where carelessness can cause damage to your vehicle or
personal injury to yourself, your passengers or other people.
Please read all WARNINGS carefully.
2
RWARNING
Finding Information in This Guide
After you have read this guide once, you will probably return
to it when you have a specific question or need additional
information. To help you find specific information quickly, you
can use the Quick Index or the Index.
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The Quick Index at the end of the book provides a page
number following each item which indicates where detailed
information can be found.
To use the Index, turn to the back of the book and search in the
alphabetical listing for the word that best describes the
information you need. If the word you chose is not listed, think
of other related words and look them up. We have designed the
Index so that you can find information under a technical term.
Canadian Owners — French Version
French Owner Guides can be obtained from your dealer or by
writing to Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited, Service
Publications, P.O. Box 1580, Station B, Mississauga, Ontario
L4Y 4G3.
Your Maintenance Schedule and Record
Booklet
The Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet lists the services
that are most important for keeping your vehicle in good
condition. A record log is also provided to help you keep track
of all services performed.
About the Warranties
Your vehicle is covered by three types of warranties: Basic
Vehicle Warranty, Extended Warranties on certain parts, and
Emissions Warranties.
Read your Warranty Information Booklet carefully to find out
about your vehicle’s warranties and your basic rights and
responsibilities.
If you lose your Warranty Information Booklet, you can get a new
one free of charge. Contact any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer,
or refer to the addresses and phone numbers on the first page
of this owner guide.
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Buying a Ford Extended Service Plan
If you bought your vehicle in the U.S., you can buy a Ford
Extended Service Plan for your vehicle. This optional contract
provides service protection for a longer period of time than the
basic warranty that comes with your vehicle.
You do not have to buy this option when you buy your vehicle.
However, your option to purchase the Ford Extended Service
Plan runs out after 18 months or 18,000 miles. See your dealer
for more details about the Ford Extended Service Plan.
If you purchased a Canadian vehicle and did not take
advantage of the Ford Extended Service Plan at the time of
purchase, you may still be eligible. See your dealer for the
details.
Breaking Your Vehicle In
Your new vehicle goes through an adjustment or break-in
period during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) that you drive it.
During the break-in period, you need to pay careful attention to
how you drive your vehicle.
n Avoid sudden stops. Because your vehicle has new brake
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linings, you should take these steps:
— Watch traffic carefully so that you can anticipate when to
stop.
— Begin braking well in advance.
— Apply the brakes gradually.
The break-in period for new brake linings lasts for 100 miles
(160 km) of city driving or 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of
highway driving.
n Use only the type of engine oil that Ford recommends. See
Engine oil recommendations in the Index. Do not use special
“break-in” oils.
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Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
Pollen, bird droppings and tree sap can damage the paint,
especially in hot weather. Wash your vehicle as often as
necessary to keep it clean.
Take similar precautions if your vehicle is exposed to chemical
industrial fallout.
Paint damage resulting from fallout is not related to a defect in
paint materials or workmanship and therefore is not covered by
warranty. Ford, however, believes that continual improvement
in customer satisfaction is a high priority. For this reason, Ford
has authorized its dealers to repair, at no charge to the owner,
the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by environmental fallout
within 12 months or 12,000 miles (20,000 km) of purchase,
whichever comes first. Customers may be required to bring their
vehicle in for inspection by a Ford representative.
Washing and Polishing Your Vehicle
Wash the outside of your vehicle, including the underside, with
a mild detergent.
DO NOT:
n Wash your vehicle with hot water
n Wash your vehicle while it sits in direct sunlight
n Wash your vehicle while the body is hot
Polish your vehicle to remove harmful deposits and protect the
finish.
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Cleaning Chrome and Aluminum Parts
Wash chrome and aluminum parts with a mild detergent. Do
not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners, fuel or strong detergents.
Cleaning Plastic Parts
Some of your vehicle’s exterior trim parts are plastic. Clean with
a tar and road oil remover if necessary. Use a vinyl cleaner for
routine cleaning.
Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents or
petroleum-based cleaners.
If you have your vehicle rustproofed, remove oversprayed
rustproofing with a tar and road oil remover. If rustproofing is
not removed from plastic and rubber parts, it can cause
deterioration.
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Important Safety Belt Information
The use of safety belts helps to restrain you and your
passengers in case of a collision. In most states and in Canada
the law requires their use.
Safety belts provide best restraint when:
n the seatback is upright
n the occupant is sitting upright (not slouched)
n the lap belt is snug and low on the hips
n the shoulder belt is snug against the chest
n the knees are straight forward
To help you remember to fasten your safety belt, a warning
light may come on and a chime may sound. See Safety Belt
Warning Light and Chime in the Warning Lights and Gauges
chapter.
See the following sections in this chapter for directions on how
to properly use these safety belts. Also see Safety Restraints for
Children in this chapter for special instructions about using
safety belts for children.
RWARNING
Make sure that you and your passengers wear safety
belts. Always drive and ride with your seatback upright
and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.
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8
RWARNING
Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. Never
swing it around the neck over the inside shoulder. Never
use a single belt for more than one person or across more
than one seating position. Each seating position in your
vehicle has a specific safety belt assembly which is made
up of one buckle and one tongue that are designed to be
used as a pair. Failure to follow these precautions could
increase the risk and/or severity of injury in a collision.
RWARNING
Ford recommends that all safety belt assemblies and
attaching hardware should be inspected by a qualified
technician after any collision. Safety belt assemblies not
in use during a collision should also be inspected and
replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.
RWARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision,
children should always ride with the seatback upright.
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Safety Restraints
9
RWARNING
Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap
while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot
protect the child from injury in a collision.
Lock the doors of your vehicle before driving to lessen the risk
of the door coming open in a collision.
Combination Lap and Shoulder Belts
While your vehicle is in motion, the combination lap and
shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake
hard, turn hard, or if your vehicle receives an impact of 5 mph
(8 km/h) or more, the lap and shoulder belt locks and helps
reduce your forward movement.
After you get into your vehicle, close the door and lock it. Then
adjust the seat to the position that suits you best.
Pull the combination lap/shoulder belt from the retractor so
that the shoulder portion of the belt crosses your shoulder and
chest. Be sure the belt is not twisted. If it is, remove the twist.
Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you hear a
snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened
to the buckle by pulling on tongue.
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Fastening the front seat lap and shoulder belt
NOTE: Be sure to read and understand Important Safety Belt
10
Information at the beginning of this chapter.
To adjust the lap part of the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt
until the lap belt fits snugly and as low as possible around your
hips.
Unfastening the combination lap and shoulder belts
While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to its original position
to prevent it from striking you or the vehicle.
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Safety Restraints
Dual Locking Mode Lap/Shoulder Belt Retractor
The front passenger seat and the rear outer seat combination lap
and shoulder belts are equipped with a dual locking mode
retractor on the shoulder belt portion of the lap/shoulder belt.
This retractor can be switched from vehicle sensitive
(emergency) locking mode to automatic locking mode by pulling
the belt webbing all of the way out of the retractor. The
retractor modes function as follows.
Vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode
In this operating mode, the lap/shoulder belt retractor will
allow the occupant freedom of movement, locking tight only on
hard braking, hard cornering or impacts of approximately
5 mph (8 km/h) or more.
Automatic locking mode
This mode must be used when installing a child seat on the
front passenger seat and rear seats where dual locking retractors
are provided. To switch the retractor from the emergency
locking mode to the automatic locking mode, perform the
following steps:
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RWARNING
Rear facing infant seats should never be placed in the
front seat.
1. Buckle the lap/shoulder combination belt.
2. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward
until all of the belt is extracted and a click is heard. At this
time, the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (child
restraint mode).
3. Allow the belt to retract. A clicking sound will be heard as
the belt retracts. This indicates that the retractor is in the
automatic locking mode.
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4. Pull up on the shoulder belt to remove slack in the lap belt.
NOTE: When the combination lap/shoulder belt is unbuckled
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and allowed to retract completely, the retractor will
switch to the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking
mode. See the detailed instructions under Safety Seats
for Children in this chapter.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment
Driver and right front passenger
You can adjust the shoulder belt height to one of four (4)
positions.
To adjust the belt down, push the release button (see figures 1
and 2). To adjust the belt up, slide the adjuster up. (You do not
have to push the release button.)
Figure 1 — The shoulder belt height adjuster
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Safety Restraints
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Figure 2 — Adjusting the shoulder belt height
Make sure the adjuster is firmly in one of the four positions.
The belt should be adjusted up or down until the belt rests on
your shoulder near your neck.
RWARNING
Position the shoulder belt height adjuster so that the belt
rests across the middle of your shoulder. Be sure the
shoulder belt is properly positioned on your shoulder
each time you use the belt. If the shoulder belt is off
your shoulder, on your upper arm or neck, there is a
greater risk of severe injury in a collision.
Lap Belts
The lap belt in the center of the rear seat does not adjust
automatically. You must adjust it to fit snugly and as low as
possible around your hips. Do not wear it around your waist.
Pull the belt across your hips and insert the tongue into the
correct buckle on your seat until you hear a snap and feel it
lock. Make sure the buckle is securely fastened.
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If you need to lengthen the belt, unfasten it and tip the belt
tongue at a right angle to the belt. Pull the belt tongue over
your lap until it reaches the buckle.
If you need to shorten the belt, pull on the loose end of the
webbing until the belt fits snugly.
To unfasten the belt, push the release button on the end of the
buckle. This allows the tongue to unlatch from the buckle.
Unfastening the lap belt in center rear seating position
Safety Belt Extension Assembly
For some people, the safety belt may be too short even when it
is fully extended. You can add about eight inches (20 cm) to the
belt length with a safety belt extension assembly (part number
611C22). Safety belt extensions are available at no cost from
your dealer.
Use only extensions manufactured by the same supplier as the
safety belt. Manufacturer identification is located at the end of
the webbing on the label. Also, use the safety belt extension
only if the safety belt is too short for you when fully extended.
Do not use extension to change the fit of the shoulder belt
across the torso.
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Safety Restraints
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RWARNING
Failure to follow these instructions will affect the
performance of the safety belts and increase the risk of
personal injury.
Safety Belt Maintenance
Check the safety belt systems periodically to make sure that
they work properly and are not damaged.
All safety belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front
seat belt buckle support assemblies (slide bar) (if equipped),
child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if equipped), and
attaching hardware, should be inspected after any collision. Ford
recommends that all safety belt assemblies used in vehicles
involved in a collision be replaced. However, if the collision was
minor and a qualified technician finds that the belts do not
show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not
need to be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a
collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage
or improper operation is noted.
Safety Belt Warning Label
A warning label has been placed on the buckle of each of your
vehicle’s front seat safety belts.
In a collision of sufficient severity while the safety belt is in use,
the safety belt buckle will pull out of the sleeve so that all or
part of the orange portion of the label is visible.
RWARNING
Whenever the orange portion of the label is visible, the
safety belt must be replaced.
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The warning label on the front seat safety belt buckle
Cleaning the Safety Belts
Clean the safety belts with any mild soap solution that is
recommended for cleaning upholstery or carpets. Do not bleach
or dye the belt webbing because this may weaken it.
Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS)
The driver and right front passenger air bags are Supplemental
Restraint Systems (SRS), provided at these seating positions in
addition to the lap/shoulder belt, and are designed to
supplement the protection provided to properly belted
occupants in moderate to severe frontal collisions. The
supplemental air bag system does not provide restraint to the
lower body.
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Safety Restraints
17
The Importance of Wearing Safety Belts
RWARNING
All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should
always wear their safety belts, even when an air bag
Supplemental Restraint System is provided.
There are four very important reasons to use safety belts even
with an air bag system. Use your safety belts to:
n help keep you in the proper position (away from the air bag)
when it inflates
n reduce the risk of harm in rollover, side or rear impact
collisions, because an air bag is not designed to inflate in
such situations
n reduce the risk of harm in frontal collisions that are not
severe enough to activate the supplemental air bag
n reduce the risk of being thrown from your vehicle
The Importance of Being Properly Seated
RWARNING
If a passenger is not properly seated and restrained, an
inflating air bag could cause serious injury.
In a collision, the air bag must inflate extremely fast to help
provide additional protection for you. In order to do this, the
air bag must inflate with considerable force. If you are not
seated in a normal riding position with your back against the
seatback, the air bag may not protect you properly and could
possibly hurt you as it inflates.
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RWARNING
Rear-facing infant seats should never be placed in the
front seat.
In rear-facing infant seats, the infant’s head is closer to the air
bag. The force of the rapidly inflating air bag could push the
top of the rear-facing seat against the vehicle seatback or center
armrests (if so equipped), or center console (if so equipped).
REAR-FACING INFANT CARRIERS MUST ALWAYS BE
SECURED IN THE REAR SEAT, and other child safety seats
and infant seats should be secured in the rear seat whenever
possible.
RWARNING
When using forward-facing child seats move the
passenger seat as far back from the instrument panel as
possible. NEVER SECURE REAR-FACING INFANT
SEATS IN THE FRONT SEAT.
Your vehicle is equipped with a right front passenger air bag.
Air bags deploy with great force, faster than the blink of an eye.
Front passengers, especially children and small adults, must
never sit on the front edge of the seat, stand near the glove
compartment of the instrument panel, or lean over near the air
bag cover when the vehicle is moving. All occupants should sit
with their backs against the seatback, move the seat to the most
rearward position if possible and use the safety belts. Children
weighing less than 40 lbs. (18 kg) always should use child or
infant seats.
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Safety Restraints
19
RWARNING
Do not place objects or mount equipment on or near the
air bag cover on the steering wheel or in front seat areas
that may come in contact with a deploying air bag.
Failure to follow this instruction may increase the risk of
personal injury in the event of a collision.
For further information about the proper mounting of
equipment in the front seat of this vehicle, please refer to Ford’s
brochure entitled Some Important Information About Air Bag
Supplemental Restraint System which can be obtained by calling
Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356. Ask for brochure FPS-8602.
For additional important safety information on the proper use of
seat belts, child seats, and infant seats, please read the other
sections of this part of the Owner Guide, especially sections
entitled Safety Belts for Children and Safety Seats for Children.
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How the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System
Operates
The driver air bag is in the center of the steering wheel. The
front passenger seat air bag is located in the center of the
instrument panel ledge above the glove compartment. Both air
bags are designed to stay out of sight until they are activated.
The location of air bags and warning labels
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Safety Restraints
If a collision occurs, the sensors sense the severity of the impact
and activate the air bags if necessary. The air bag system is
designed to deploy in frontal and front-angled collisions more
severe than hitting a parked vehicle (of similar size and weight)
head-on at about 28 mph (45 km/h). Because the system senses
the crash severity rather than vehicle speed, some frontal
collisions at speeds above 28 mph (45 km/h) will not inflate the
air bag.
When the sensors activate the system, the air bags inflate
rapidly, filling with non-toxic nitrogen gas in a fraction of a
second. Immediately after inflation, the air bags deflate by
releasing the nitrogen gas through vent holes. The whole
process takes place in a matter of seconds.
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RWARNING
Air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do
not touch them after inflation.
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Inflated driver-side air bag
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Safety Restraints
23
Inflated passenger-side air bag
RWARNING
If the air bag is inflated, THE AIR BAG WILL NOT
FUNCTION AGAIN AND MUST BE REPLACED
IMMEDIATELY. If the air bag is not replaced, the
unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a
collision.
To ensure that the air bag system will operate as intended in a
crash, the system is equipped with a diagnostic module, which
controls a readiness lamp and a warning tone. The diagnostic
module monitors its own circuits, the air bag electrical system,
the air bag readiness light, the air bag power, and the air bag
inflators.
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The air bag system uses a readiness light on the instrument
cluster and a tone to indicate the condition of the system. When
you turn the ignition key to the ON position, this light will
illuminate for approximately six (6) seconds and then turn off.
This indicates that the system is operating normally. NOTE:
Maintenance of the air bag system is not required.
A problem with the system is indicated by one or more of the
following:
n the readiness light will either flash or stay lit,
n or it will not light immediately after ignition is turned on,
n or a group of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will
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repeat periodically until the problem and light are repaired.
If any of these things happen, have the air bag system serviced
at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. Unless
serviced, the air bag supplemental restraint system may not
function properly in the event of a collision.
RWARNING
Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Air Bag
Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your
Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
Disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles
For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles, see your
local Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Air bags MUST be
disposed of by qualified personnel.
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Safety Restraints
Safety Restraints for Children
In the U.S. and Canada, you are required by law to use safety
restraints for children. If small children ride in your vehicle —
this generally includes children who are four years old or
younger and who weigh 40 pounds (18 kg) or less — you must
put them in safety seats that are made specially for children.
Safety belts alone do not provide maximum protection for these
children. Check your local and state laws for specific
requirements.
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RWARNING
Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap
while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot
protect the child from injury in a collision.
RWARNING
Passengers should not be allowed to ride in the cargo
area. Persons not riding in a seat with a fastened seat
belt are much more likely to suffer serious injury in a
collision. Cargo should always be secured to prevent it
from shifting and causing damage to the vehicle or harm
to passengers.
When possible, put children in the rear seat of your vehicle.
Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly
restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating
positions.
RWARNING
Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions
included with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If
you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the
child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.
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RWARNING
Safety belts and seats can become hot in a vehicle that
has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a
small child. Check seat covers and buckles before you
place a child anywhere near them.
RWARNING
Never leave a child unattended in your vehicle.
Safety Seats for Children
Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight
of the child. Always follow the safety seat manufacturer’s
instructions when installing and using the safety seat.
Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top
tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position
which is capable of providing a tether anchorage. For more
information on top tether straps see Attaching Safety Seats With
Tether Straps in this chapter.
Your vehicle is equipped with a right front passenger air bag.
Air bags deploy with great force, faster than the blink of an eye.
Front passengers, especially children and small adults, must
never sit on the front edge of the seat, stand near the glove
compartment of the instrument panel, or lean over near the air
bag cover when the vehicle is moving. All occupants should sit
with their backs against the seatback, move the seat to the most
rearward position if possible and use the safety belts. Children
weighing less than 40 lbs. (18 kg) always should use child or
infant seats.
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Safety Restraints
27
RWARNING
When using forward-facing child seats move the
passenger seat as far back from the instrument panel as
possible. NEVER SECURE REAR-FACING INFANT
SEATS IN THE FRONT SEAT.
THE FORCE OF THE RAPIDLY INFLATING PASSENGER AIR
BAG COULD PUSH THE TOP OF THE REAR-FACING SEAT
AGAINST THE VEHICLE SEATBACK, ARMRESTS OR
CONSOLE. REAR-FACING INFANT SEATS MUST ALWAYS
BE SECURED IN THE REAR SEAT. Failure to follow these
instructions could result in serious injury.
All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle
seats by lap belts or by the lap portion of a lap-shoulder belt.
RWARNING
If you do not properly secure the safety seat, the child
occupying the seat may be injured during a collision or
sudden stop. An unsecured safety seat could also injure
other passengers.
RWARNING
When installing a child safety seat, be sure to use the correct
safety belt buckle for that seating position, and make sure the
tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.
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RWARNING
Always keep the buckle release button pointing upward
and away from the child seat, with the tongue between
the child seat and the release button as shown in the
following illustration.
Safety belt buckle placement for child seats
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Safety Restraints
Installing Child Safety Seats in the Front Passenger
Seat and Outer Rear Seating Positions
Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking mode retractor on
the shoulder belt portion of the combination lap/shoulder safety
belt for the right front seat passenger and rear outer passengers.
If you choose to install a child safety seat in the front seating
position, move vehicle seat as far back as possible.
1. Position the child seat in center of passenger seat.
2. Pull down on shoulder belt, then grasp shoulder belt and lap
29
belt together. Figure 1.
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3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together,
route the tongue through the child seat according to the
child seat manufacturer’s instructions. See Figure 2. Be sure
that the belt webbing is not twisted.
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4. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward
until all of the belt is extracted from the reel and a click is
heard. At this time the retractor is in the automatic locking
mode (child restraint mode). Figure 4.
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Safety Restraints
5. Allow the belt to retract. Pull up on the shoulder webbing. A
clicking sound will be heard as the belt retracts. This
indicates the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Push
down on the child seat while you pull up on the belt to
remove any slack in the belt. Figures 5 and 6.
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6. Before placing the child in the child seat, forcibly tilt the seat
from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that the
seat is securely held in place, Figure 7.
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7. Double check that the retractor is in the automatic locking
mode. Try to pull more belt out of the retractor. If you
cannot, the belt is in the automatic locking mode, Figure 8.
8. Check to make sure that the child seat is properly secured
prior to each use. If the belt is not locked, repeat steps 4
through 7.
To remove retractor from automatic lock mode, unbuckle the
belt and allow the webbing to retract fully. A click will be
heard as the belt retracts. The belt is back in normal operating
mode (vehicle sensitive emergency locking mode) when this
click disappears.
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RWARNING
Installing Child Safety Seats in the Rear Center Seating
Position
Some child safety seats are too wide to fit in the rear center
seat. Choose a child safety seat with a narrow base that can fit
between the safety belt buckles.
Attaching Safety Seats With Tether Straps
Some manufacturers make safety seats that include a tether
strap that goes over the back of the vehicle seat and attaches to
an anchoring point. Other manufacturers offer the tether strap
as an accessory. Contact the manufacturer of your child safety
seat for information about ordering a tether strap.
To install a tether from a child safety seat in the front seat,
route the tether strap under the vehicle seat head restraint and
hook the tether hook into the hole in the tongue of the center
rear lap belt. After the hook is in the hole, pull on the loose end
of the lap belt webbing to shorten the belt and tighten the
tether strap.
To install a tethered child safety seat in the rear seat, you will
need tether anchorage hardware.
Tether anchorage hardware (Canadian vehicles only)
All vehicles built for sale in Canada include a tether anchor
hardware kit for use with child safety seats. Attachment holes
(at each rear seating position) have been provided in your
vehicle to attach the anchor hardware, if required. Additional
kits can be obtained at no charge from any Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
1996

Tether anchorage hardware (USA vehicles only)
All vehicles built for sale in the USA do not include a tether
anchor hardware kit for use with child safety seats. However,
attachment holes (at each rear seating position) have been
provided in your vehicle to attach the tether anchor hardware.
If tether anchorage hardware is required for the child safety
seat, use only the tether anchor kit available at no charge from
any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer (Base part number 613D74).
Safety Belts for Children
Children who are too large for child safety seats should always
wear safety belts. (See instructions with your child seat, or
contact its manufacturer, to determine maximum size of child
that will safely fit in the seat.)
38
RWARNING
If safety belts are not properly worn and adjusted as
described, the risk of serious injury to the child in a
collision will be much greater.
If the shoulder belt portion of one of the lap and shoulder belts
can be positioned so that it does not cross or rest in front of the
child’s face or neck, the child should wear the lap and shoulder
belt. Moving the child closer to the center of the vehicle may
help provide a good shoulder belt fit.
1996

Safety Restraints
To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts on children who
have outgrown child safety seats, Ford recommends use of a
belt-positioning booster seat that is labelled as conforming to all
Federal motor vehicle safety standards. Belt-positioning booster
seats raise the child and provide a shorter, firmer seating
cushion that encourages safer seating posture and better fit of
lap and shoulder belts on the child. A belt-positioning booster
should be used if the shoulder belt rests in front of the child’s
face or neck, or if the lap belt does not fit snugly on both
thighs, or if the thighs are too short to let the child sit all the
way back on the seat cushion when the lower legs hang over
the edge of the seat cushion. You may wish to discuss the
specific needs of your child with your pediatrician.
39
RWARNING
Do not use a belt-positioning booster with a lap-only
belt.
Lap belts and the lap belt portion of lap and shoulder belts
should always be worn snugly and below the hips, touching the
child’s thighs.
RWARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision,
children should always ride with the seatback upright.
1996

Starting Your Contour
41
Ignition
Understanding the Positions of the Ignition
The positions of the key in the ignition
LOCK and ACCESSORY lock the gearshift for all vehicles with
an automatic transaxle.
RWARNING
LOCK position does not lock the gearshift on
floor-mounted manual transaxle gearshifts. If the parking
brake is not set and the gearshift is moved out of gear,
your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.
The automatic transaxle gearshift must be in P (Park) to move
the key to the LOCK position.
LOCK is the only position that allows you to remove the key.
The LOCK feature helps to protect your vehicle from theft.
If your key is stuck in the LOCK position and will not turn,
move your steering wheel left or right until the key turns freely.
1996

ACCESSORY allows some of your vehicle’s electrical accessories
to operate while the engine is not running. For example, you
can use ACCESSORY to turn on the radio without starting the
engine.
ON allows you to test your vehicle’s warning lights (except the
brake system warning light) to make sure they work before you
start the engine. The key returns to the ON position once the
engine is started and remains in this position while the engine
runs.
START cranks the engine. Release the key once the engine starts
so that you do not damage the starter. The key should return to
ON when you release it. The START position also allows you to
test the brake warning light.
Removing the Key From the Ignition
Procedures for removing your key from the ignition vary,
depending on whether your vehicle has an automatic or manual
transaxle.
If your vehicle has an automatic transaxle:
1. Put the gearshift lever in P (Park).
2. Set the parking brake fully.
3. Rotate the ignition key to the LOCK position.
4. Remove the key from the ignition.
If your vehicle has a manual transaxle:
1. Put the gearshift lever in 1 (First).
2. Set the parking brake fully.
3. Rotate the ignition key to the LOCK position.
4. Remove the key from the ignition.
42
1996

The steering wheel locks when the key is removed.
If the driver’s door is open while the key is still in the ignition,
a warning chime sounds.
43
RWARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that
the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic
transaxle) or in 1 (First) (manual transaxle).
RWARNING
Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets alone in
your vehicle. They could accidentally injure themselves
or others through inadvertent operation of the vehicle.
Further, on hot, sunny days, temperatures in a closed
vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause
severe and possibly fatal injuries to people as well as
animals.
Fuel-Injected Engines
When starting a fuel-injected engine, the most important thing
to remember is to avoid pressing down on the accelerator
before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you
have problems getting your vehicle started. See Starting Your
Engine in this chapter for details about when to use the
accelerator while you start your vehicle.
1996

Starting Your Vehicle
Preparing to Start Your Vehicle
44
RWARNING
Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or other
enclosed area. Never sit in a stopped vehicle for more
than a short period of time with the engine running.
Exhaust fumes are toxic. See Guarding Against Exhaust
Fumes in this chapter for more instructions.
Before you start your vehicle, do the following:
1. Make sure you and all your passengers buckle your safety
belts. See Safety Restraints in the Index for more details.
2. Make sure your headlamps and other accessories are turned
off and the parking brake is set.
3. If you have a manual transaxle, make sure that the parking
brake is fully set, push the clutch pedal to the floor, and put
the gearshift into Neutral before you turn the key.
(Remember, the starter will operate only if the clutch pedal
is pushed all the way to the floor.)
If you have an automatic transaxle, make sure that the
gearshift is in P (Park) and the parking brake is set before
you turn the key.
1996

Before you start your vehicle, you should test the warning lights
on the instrument panel to make sure that they work. Refer to
the Warning Lights and Gauges chapter.
Starting Your Engine
To start your engine:
1. Follow the steps under Preparing to Start Your Vehicle at the
45
beginning of this section.
2. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and turn the ignition key
to the ON position.
3. DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when starting your
engine. DO NOT use the accelerator while the vehicle is
parked.
4. Turn the key to the START position (cranking) until the
engine starts. Allow the key to return to the ON position
after the engine has started.
If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering
wheel slightly because it may be binding.
1996

For a cold engine:
2.0L engine:
n At temperatures below -10°F (-23°C): Turn the key to ON,
46
crank the engine and depress the accelerator about 1/4 of
the way down and hold that position for five (5) seconds. If
the engine fails to start, continue to crank with the
accelerator depressed about 1/4 of the way down and hold
that position until the engine starts. DO NOT crank for
more than 30 seconds, or you could damage the starter. If
the engine fails to start on the first try, turn the key to OFF
and wait two (2) minutes before trying again. Allow engine
to warm up for a few minutes before putting transaxle into
gear.
n At temperatures between -10°F (-23°C) and 10°F (-12°C):
Turn the key to ON, and crank the engine for five (5)
seconds. If the engine fails to start, continue to crank and
depress the accelerator about 1/4 of the way down and hold
that position until the engine starts. DO NOT crank for
more than 30 seconds, or you could damage the starter. If
the engine fails to start on the first try, turn the key to OFF
and wait two (2) minutes before trying again.
n At temperatures between 10°F (-12°C) and 32°F (0°C): If the
engine does not start in fifteen (15) seconds on first try, turn
the key to OFF, then try again.
n At temperatures above 32°F (0°C): If the engine does not
start in five (5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF,
then try again.
If you have the 4-cylinder 2.0L engine and are not using an
engine block heater, warm up the engine for a minute or two
before putting the transaxle in gear. Depressing the accelerator
slightly will also help with cold starts.
1996

2.5L engine:
n At temperatures 10°F (-12°C) and below: If the engine does
not start in fifteen (15) seconds on the first try, turn the key
to OFF, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not
flood the engine, then try again.
47
n At temperatures above 10°F (-12°C): If the engine does not
start in five (5) seconds on the first try, wait approximately
ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the engine, then try
again.
For a warm engine:
n Do not hold the key in the START position for more than
five (5) seconds at a time. If the engine does not start within
five (5) seconds on the first try, wait a few seconds after the
starter stops, then try again.
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the
engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter or
flood the engine.
After you start the engine, let it idle for a few seconds. Keep
your foot on the brake pedal and put the gearshift lever in gear.
Release the parking brake. Slowly release the brake pedal and
drive away in the normal manner.
NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transaxle, your vehicle has an interlock that prevents
you from shifting out of P (Park) unless your foot is
on the brake pedal.
If the engine does not start after two attempts:
1. Press the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold
it.
2. Turn the ignition key to the START position.
3. Release the ignition key when the engine starts.
1996

4. Release the accelerator gradually as the engine speeds up.
Then drive away in the normal manner.
If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump shut-off switch
may have been triggered. For directions on how to reset the
switch see Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch later in this chapter.
A computer system controls the engine’s idle speed. When you
start your vehicle, the engine’s idle speed normally runs high.
These faster engine speeds will make your vehicle move slightly
faster than its normal idle speed. It should, however, slow down
after a short time. If it does not, have the idle speed checked.
If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, do
not allow your vehicle to idle for more than 10 minutes. Have
the vehicle checked.
48
RWARNING
Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very
high temperatures in the engine and exhaust system,
creating the risk of fire or other damage.
RWARNING
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or
other dry ground cover. The emission system heats up
the engine compartment and exhaust system, which can
start a fire.
If you consistently start your vehicle in subzero temperatures,
use an engine block heater (if your vehicle has this option).
1996

Engine Block Heater (If equipped)
Engine block heaters are strongly recommended if you live in a
region where temperatures reach -10°F (-23°C) or below. An
engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves
starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows the
heater-defrost system to respond quickly.
To turn the heater on, simply plug it into a grounded 110-volt
outlet. Ford recommends that you use a 110-volt circuit that is
protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter.
49
RWARNING
To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with
ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater)
adapters.
For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before
you start your vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three
hours will not damage the engine, so you can plug it in at night
to start your vehicle the following morning.
1996

If the Engine Cranks but Does Not Start or
Does Not Start After a Collision
Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
If the engine cranks but does not start or does not start after a
collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been
triggered. The shut-off switch is a device intended to stop the
fuel pump when your vehicle has been involved in a substantial
jolt.
Once the shut-off switch is triggered, you must reset the switch
by hand before you can start your vehicle. The switch is located
on the left hand kick panel in the driver’s footwell.
The left-hand kick panel in the driver’s footwell
50
RWARNING
If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the switch or try to
start your vehicle. Have all the passengers get out of the
vehicle and call the local fire department or a towing
service.
1996

51
If your engine cranks but does not start after a collision or
substantial jolt:
1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
2. Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel.
3. If you do not see or smell fuel, push the red reset button
down. If the button is already set, you may have a different
mechanical problem.
4. Turn the ignition key to the ON position for a few seconds,
then turn it to the OFF position.
5. Check under the vehicle again for leaking fuel. If you see or
smell fuel, do not start your vehicle again. If you do not
see or smell fuel, you can try to start your vehicle again.
6. Check all vehicle warning lights before driving the vehicle.
Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
Carbon monoxide, although colorless and odorless, is present in
exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.
RWARNING
Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or other
enclosed area. Never sit in a stopped vehicle for more
than a short period of time with the engine running.
Exhaust fumes are toxic. See Guarding Against Exhaust
Fumes in this chapter for more instructions.
RWARNING
If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have
your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not
drive if you smell exhaust fumes.
1996

Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked
whenever:
n your vehicle is raised for service
n the sound of the exhaust system changes
n your vehicle has been damaged in a collision
Improve your ventilation by keeping all air inlet vents clear of
snow, leaves, and other debris.
If the engine is idling while you are stopped in an open area
for long periods of time, open the windows at least one inch
(2.5 cm). Also, adjust the heating or air conditioning to bring in
outside air.
If you use the heater, set the fan speed on medium or high with
the function control knob turned to FLR, PNL/FLR or PANEL.
If you use the air conditioner, set the fan speed on medium or
high with the A/C button pressed. (Do not use MAX A/C.)
52
1996

Warning Lights and Gauges
53
In your vehicle, the warning lights and gauges are grouped
together on the instrument panel. We call this grouping a
cluster. Your vehicle has one of the following clusters:
n Standard Cluster
n Sport Cluster
If you are not sure which cluster your vehicle has, check the
diagrams on the following pages.
1996

The standard cluster
54
1996

55
The sport cluster
1996

Standard Cluster
The following warning lights and gauges are on the standard
cluster. All of the warning lights and gauges alert you to
possible problems with your vehicle. The following sections
detail what each of these indicators means.
Indicator Lights and Chimes
Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime
This warning light and chime remind you to fasten your safety
belt. The following conditions will take place:
n If the driver’s safety belt is not buckled when the ignition is
56
turned to the ON position, the light will turn on for 1 to 2
minutes and the chime will sound for 4 to 8 seconds.
n If the driver’s safety belt is buckled while the light is on or
the chime is sounding, both the light and the chime will turn
off.
n If the driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition is
turned to the ON position, neither the light nor the chime
will turn on.
1996

Brake System Warning Light
The warning light for the brakes can show two things — that
the parking brake is not fully released, or that the brake fluid
level is low in the master cylinder reservoir. If the fluid level is
low, the brake system should be checked by a qualified service
technician.
This light comes on when the parking brake is set, or if it is not
set, it comes on briefly when you turn the ignition to the
START position. It normally goes off shortly after the engine
starts and you release the parking brake. If the light stays on
after you have fully released the parking brake, have the
hydraulic brake system serviced by your dealer or a qualified
service technician.
57
RWARNING
The BRAKE light indicates that the brakes may not be
working properly. Have the brakes checked immediately.
1996

Charging System Light
This light indicates that your battery is not being charged and
that you need to have the electrical system checked.
This light comes on every time you turn the ignition to the ON
or START position (engine off). The light should go off when
the engine starts and the alternator begins to charge.
If the light stays on or comes on when the engine is running,
have the electrical system checked as soon as possible.
Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light indicates the engine’s oil pressure, not the oil level.
However, if your engine’s oil level is low, it could affect the oil
pressure. The light will come on briefly when you turn your
key to the START and ON position. The light should stay off
when the engine is running with normal oil pressure. If the
light comes on while the engine is running, you have lost oil
pressure and continued operation will cause severe engine
damage.
58
1996

59
If you lose engine oil pressure:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible.
2. Shut off the engine immediately. If you do not stop the
engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage
could result.
3. Check the engine’s oil level, following the instructions on
checking and adding engine oil in this Owner Guide. (See
Engine oil in the Index.) If you do not follow these
instructions, you or others could be injured. To ensure an
accurate reading, your vehicle should be on level ground.
4. If the level is low, add only as much oil as necessary to
bring it to the full level before you start the engine again.
Do not overfill. Do not operate the engine if the light is on,
regardless of the oil level. Contact your nearest dealer for
further service actions.
High Beam Light
This light comes on when the headlamps are turned to high
beam or when you flash the lights.
If the high beam light flashes in a vehicle equipped with the
Daytime Running Light (DRL) system (Canada), it indicates a
failure in the DRL circuit. Check the bulbs and fuses or have
the DRL system checked by your dealer or a qualified service
technician.
1996

Chime for Headlamps On
This chime sounds if the driver’s door is open when the parking
lamps or headlamps are on. The chime sounds until you close
the door or turn off the lamps.
Air Bag Readiness Light
The air bag system uses a readiness light and a tone to indicate
the condition of the system. The readiness light is in the
instrument cluster. When you turn the ignition to the ON
position, this light will illuminate for approximately six (6)
seconds and then turn off. This indicates that the system is
operating normally. NOTE: Maintenance of the air bag system is
not required.
A problem with the system is indicated by one or more of the
following: the readiness light will either flash or stay lit, or it
will not light or a group of five beeps will be heard.
60
RWARNING
If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have
the air bag system serviced at your Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately.
1996

Check Engine Warning Light
The Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic II (OBD II) system consists
of the hardware and software necessary to monitor the
operation of the powertrain. The OBD II system is designed to
check the function of the vehicle’s powertrain control system
during normal operation. If an emission problem is detected, the
Check Engine Warning Light (in the cluster) is turned on.
Modification or additions to the vehicle may cause incorrect
operation of the OBD II system. Additions such as burglar
alarms, cellular phones, and CB radios must be carefully
installed. Do not install these devices by tapping into or running
wires close to powertrain control system wires or components.
This light comes on briefly when you turn the ignition to the
ON position, but should turn off when the engine starts. If the
light does not come on when you turn the ignition to the ON
position or if it comes on and stays on when you are driving,
have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. This indicates a
possible problem with one of the engine’s emission control
systems. You do not need to have your vehicle towed in.
If the light turns on and off at one (1) second intervals while
you are driving the vehicle, it means that the engine is
misfiring. If this condition persists, damage could occur to the
engine or catalytic convertor. Have your vehicle serviced at the
first opportunity. You do not need to have your vehicle towed
in.
61
1996

If the light turns on and off on rare occasions while you are
driving, it means that a malfunction occurred and the condition
corrected itself.
An example of a condition which corrects itself occurs when an
engine running out of fuel begins to misfire. In this case, the
Check Engine Warning Light may turn on and will then set a
Diagnostic Trouble Code indicating that the engine was
misfiring while the last of the fuel was being consumed. After
refueling, the Check Engine Warning Light will turn off after
the vehicle has completed three consecutive warm up cycles
without a misfire condition occurring. A warm up cycle consists
of engine start from a cold condition (engine at ambient
temperature) and running until the engine reaches normal
operating temperature.
On the fourth engine start up, the Check Engine Warning Light
will turn off as soon as the engine begins to crank. It is not
necessary to have the engine serviced.
Under certain conditions, the Check Engine Warning Light may
come on if the fuel cap is not properly installed. If the Check
Engine Warning Light comes on and you suspect that the fuel
cap is not properly installed, pull off the road as soon as it is
safely possible and turn off the engine. Remove and replace the
fuel cap, making sure it is properly seated.
After completing the three consecutive warm up cycles and on
the fourth engine start up, the Check Engine Warning Light
should turn off. If the light does not go off after the fourth
engine restart, have your vehicle serviced by your dealer or a
qualified technician.
62
1996

Overdrive Off Indicator (Automatic Transaxle Only)
This light tells you that the Transaxle Control Switch (TCS) on
the gearshift lever has been pushed. When the light is on, the
transaxle will not shift into overdrive. Depressing the TCS
button located below the gearshift release button on the shifter
will return the vehicle to “overdrive on” mode. The transaxle
will be in the “overdrive on” mode when the vehicle is started
even if the O/D OFF mode was selected when the vehicle was
last shut off.
If the light does not come on when the TCS is depressed or if
the light flashes when you are driving, have your vehicle
serviced at the first opportunity.
63
Turn Signal Indicator Lights
The turn signal arrow will flash to indicate the direction in
which you are going to be turning.
1996

Fuel Gauge
The fuel gauge displays approximately how much fuel you have
in the fuel tank.
For proper fuel gauge operation, the ignition must be in the
OFF position before you add fuel to the fuel tank.
The fuel gauge indicator may vary slightly while the vehicle is
in motion. This is the result of fuel movement within the tank.
An accurate reading may be obtained with the vehicle on
smooth, level ground.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge
This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine coolant, not
the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level or
mixture, the gauge indication will not be accurate.
The pointer moves from the white mark into the NORMAL
band as the engine coolant warms up. It is acceptable for the
pointer to fluctuate within the NORMAL band under normal
driving conditions. Under certain driving conditions, such as
heavy stop and go traffic or driving up hills in hot weather, the
pointer may indicate at the top of the NORMAL band.
The engine coolant temperature gauge
64
1996

65
If, under any circumstances, the pointer moves above the
NORMAL band, the engine coolant is overheating and
continued operation may cause engine damage.
If your engine coolant overheats:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Let the engine cool.
4. Check the coolant level following the instructions on
checking and adding coolant to your engine, see Engine
Coolant in the Index. If you do not follow these instructions,
you or others could be injured.
If the coolant continues to overheat, have the coolant system
serviced as soon as possible.
Speedometer
The speedometer tells you how many miles (kilometers) per
hour your vehicle is moving.
Odometer
The odometer tells you the total number of miles (kilometers)
your vehicle has been driven.
Trip Odometer
The trip odometer tells you how many miles (kilometers) your
vehicle has been driven since the last reset. Press the reset
button to return the trip odometer to zero.
1996

Sport Cluster
The sport cluster has basically the same standard warning lights
and gauges as the standard cluster, with the following
additional features:
Tachometer
The tachometer displays the approximate engine revolutions per
minute (rpm), or how fast the engine is running.
If you drive with the tachometer in the red zone, you may
damage the engine.
Anti-lock Brake System Warning Light (If equipped)
Your vehicle may have an Anti-lock Brake System feature. If it
does, check the Anti-lock Brake System light each time you start
the engine. If it stays on longer than three (3) seconds, shut off
the engine and restart. If it stays on, that means the Anti-lock
Brake feature is not working and should be serviced
immediately to restore the benefits of the Anti-lock feature.
Normal braking is not affected unless the brake warning light is
also lit.
The Anti-Lock Brake System has self-check capabilities. As
described above, the system turns on the anti-lock light each
time you start your engine. After the engine is started and the
anti-lock light turns off, the system performs another test the
first time the vehicle reaches 5 mph (8 km/h) (between 12 and
25 mph [20 and 40 km/h] for vehicles equipped with the
traction control system). The system turns on the ABS pump
motor for approximately 1/2 second. At this time, a mechanical
noise may be heard and felt. This is a normal part of the
self-check feature. If a malfunction is found during this check
the anti-lock light will come on.
66
1996

Low Coolant Light (If equipped)
This light indicates that the level of the engine coolant is low
inside the coolant recovery bottle and that you should add more
coolant. See Engine Coolant in the Index.
67
This light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is
turned to the START position, but should turn off when the
engine starts. If this light stays on, check the level of coolant
inside the recovery bottle. The level may be slightly above the
MIN line because the light is an “early warning.”
1996

Traction Control System Light (If equipped)
This light comes on when the traction control system has been
disengaged. It may come on or flash on and off while traction
control is operating.
If the light stays on for more than three (3) seconds after the
ignition is turned to the ON position or does not come on when
the T/C OFF button is pressed, have the traction control system
checked by a qualified technician as soon as possible.
68
1996

Instrument Panel Controls
The instrument panel (dashboard) on your vehicle is divided
into several different sections. The illustrations on the following
pages show the major parts of the instrument panel that are
described in this chapter. Some items shown may not be on all
vehicles.
The main controls for the climate control system, clock, and
radio are on the instrument panel.
Clean the instrument panel lens and woodtone trim with a soft
cloth and a glass cleaner. Do not use paper towel or any
abrasive cleaner to clean either the lens or the woodtone trim as
these may cause scratches.
NOTE: Any cleaner or polish that increases the gloss (shine)
of the upper part of the instrument panel should be
avoided. The dull finish in this area is to help protect
the driver from undesirable windshield reflection.
69
1996

The Climate Control Systems
Your vehicle has one of the following:
n Heating Only System (Without Air Conditioning)
n Heating and Air Conditioning System
If you are not sure which system your vehicle has, see the
diagrams on the following pages.
Heating Only System
The control for your heater system is located at the center of the
instrument panel below the radio. The heater will operate only
when the ignition key is turned to the ON position. Your heater
will heat and/or ventilate your vehicle interior depending on
the function selector knob position and temperature you select.
The function selector knob allows you to select heating or
ventilation and determine where the air will be directed. The
temperature control knob setting determines the temperature of
the air that flows into the vehicle.
71
The control for the heating only system
1996

To turn your heater system on, select any position except OFF.
This will turn the fan on and allow air flow into the vehicle. To
turn your heater off, select OFF. This will turn the fan off and
stop air flow from coming into the vehicle.
Your vehicle also has small demister openings on each front
door near the window. This allows a small amount of air flow
to be directed onto the door glass to reduce fogging whenever
the heater system is operating.
The temperature control knob is located at the right side of the
control with a broken RED and BLUE band around the top and
sides of the knob. The all RED part of the band (full right) is
the heat or warmer area. The all BLUE area (full left) is the cool
or unheated temperature area. Any position selected between
full right and full left will give a temperature between the two
extreme temperatures. The cool temperature you select will not
be cooler than the outside temperature if your vehicle is not
equipped with an air conditioner.
H Fan speed adjustment
The H (left) knob on the control is the fan speed knob which
controls the volume of air flow. Rotate the H knob to HI to
increase fan speed and increase the amount of air entering the
vehicle. Four fan speed positions are available and are indicated
by LO, two single dots and HI beside the H control knob.
Air flow selections
PANEL
Use PANEL to bring outside air through the instrument panel
registers. You can heat the air in this position by rotating the
temperature control knob into the RED area. The air CANNOT
be cooled below the outside temperature regardless of the
temperature control knob setting.
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1996

PNL/FLR
Select PNL/FLR to get air flow to the floor and through the
instrument panel registers at the same time. This selection can
be used to either heat or ventilate your vehicle.
FLOOR
Air flow will be to the floor when FLOOR is selected. The air
cannot be cooled in the FLOOR position but can be heated by
rotating the temperature control knob into the RED area.
FLR/DEF
Select FLR/DEF to get air to the floor and windshield defrosters
at the same time.
V DEF
Select V DEF to obtain maximum air flow to the windshield.
Rotate the temperature control knob into the RED area for the
air temperature required to defrost. Rotate the H knob to
increase the air flow.
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1996

Heating and Air Conditioning System
Heating, ventilation, defrosting and defogging are accomplished
in the same way as with the heating only system. See “Heating
Only System.”
With the heating and air conditioning system, if the outside
temperature is about 50°F (10°C) or warmer, the air will be
dehumidified to remove moisture if you select FLR/DEF or
V DEF.
The control for the heating and air conditioning system
Air conditioning
A/C
Select A/C to get refrigerated outside air through the
instrument panel registers. The A/C position is used for cooling
except when extremely hot or fast cooling of the vehicle is
needed. Then, select MAX A/C for fast cooling and return to
A/C when you are comfortable.
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1996

MAX A/C
The MAX A/C position produces cool air more rapidly to
provide faster cooling of your vehicle. Thhis is possible because
cooler air is drawn from inside the passenger area and
refrigerated again instead of using warmer outside air. Using
inside air will also make the fan sound louder, which is normal
when using MAX A/C. The air flow will be from the
instrument panel registers.
Comfort tips
The following tips will help you to get the most satisfaction
from your climate control system.
n In humid weather, select V DEF before starting your
engine. This will help to prevent windshield fogging. After a
few minutes of operation, you may select another function.
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n To prevent humidity buildup inside your vehicle, always
drive with the climate control system turned on.
n Do not put objects under the front seats that interfere with
the flow of air to the back seat area.
n Remove any snow, ice, or leaves from the air intake area of
your heater and air conditioner system which could block
the air intake. The intake area is located at the bottom of the
windshield.
Passenger Compartment Air Filter
Your vehicle may have an air filter that removes pollen and
road dust from outside air before it is directed to the interior of
the vehicle. For maintenance of this filter, see Servicing Your
Contour.
1996

Rear Window Defroster and Heated Side View
Mirrors (If equipped)
The defroster for the rear window clears frost, fog, or thin ice
from both the inside and outside of the rear window and
activates the heated side view mirrors.
The button for the rear window defroster and heated side view
mirrors is on the instrument panel, to the right of the steering
wheel.
The rear window defroster and heated side view mirrors
Clear away any snow that is on the rear window and side view
mirrors before using the defroster. With the engine running,
push the defroster button.
After approximately 10 minutes, the defroster will turn off. If
the window or mirrors are still not clear, turn the defroster on
again.
The defroster will turn off when the ignition key is turned to
the OFF or START position.
NOTE: Never use sharp instruments or window cleaners with
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abrasives to clean the inside of your rear window. If
you do, you may damage the heating elements that
are bonded to the inside of the rear window and
cause damage to the rear window defroster.
1996

The Interior and Exterior Lights
Turning On the Exterior Lights
To turn on your headlamps, parking lamps, and tail lamps, use
the knob that is on the instrument panel, to the left of the
steering wheel.
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The knob for the exterior lights
To turn on the parking lamps and tail lamps, turn the knob
clockwise to the first position.
To turn on the headlamps, parking lamps and tail lamps, turn
the knob clockwise to the second position.
1996

Turning on the high beams
To change the headlamps from low to high beam, push the
lever away from you until it latches, and release. The high beam
indicator in the instrument cluster glows when the headlamps
are on high beam. To change the headlamps from high beam to
low beam, pull the lever toward you until it latches.
Fog Lamps (If equipped)
The fog lamps act as a supplement to the low beam headlamps
under limited visibility conditions such as rain, snow, dust or
fog.
The fog lamps operate only when the low beam headlamps are
on. To operate the fog lamps, turn the headlamp control knob
to the second position (headlamps on) and pull the knob out.
An indicator lamp will glow when the fog lamps are on.
To turn off, push the headlamp control knob in.
To maximize fog lamp bulb life it is recommended that the fog
lamp switch be turned off after each use prior to turning off the
headlamps.
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1996

Daytime Running Light System
(Canadian vehicles only)
The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system is designed to turn
the high beam headlamps on, with a reduced light output and
without illuminating the high beam indicator lamp in the
instrument panel. The DRL system operates when all of the
following conditions are met:
n The vehicle is “running.”
n The headlamp system is in the OFF position.
The high beam indicator light on the instrument cluster will not
be on.
A flashing high beam light in the instrument cluster indicates a
failure in the DRL system circuit, like a burnt bulb or fuse.
79
RWARNING
The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system will not
illuminate the tail lamps and parking lamps. Turn on
your headlamps at dusk. Failure to do so may result in a
collision.
Cleaning the Exterior Lamps
Do not use dry paper towel, chemical solvents or abrasive
cleaners to clean the lamps, as these may cause scratches or
crack the lamps.
1996

Lighting Up the Interior and Instrument Panel
When either front door is opened, the footwell lights and the
door courtesy lights come on.
The instrument panel lights, window control lights and door
handle lights come on whenever the headlamp switch is turned
from the OFF position. To dim the instrument panel lights, use
the thumbwheel on the instrument panel to the right of the
steering wheel.
Dimming the instrument panel lights
Dome Lamp
Your vehicle has a dome lamp above the front seat. The switch
on the dome lamp turns it on and off.
The switch on the dome lamp
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1996

Dome lamp delay
Your vehicle may have a dome lamp delay. If you set the
switch on the dome lamp to the 12-second delay position, the
dome lamp will turn on when either front door is opened.
The dome lamp will turn off after 12 seconds or when the
ignition key is turned to the ON or ACC position. It will not
turn off if either front door is open or if you move the dome
lamp switch to the ON position.
Your interior dome lamps and map lamps are plastic and
should be cleaned with a mild detergent diluted in water. Rinse
them with clear water.
Turning On the Map Lamps (If equipped)
Your vehicle may have a map lamp for the passenger and one
for the driver.
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Turning on the map lamps
1996

Traction Control System (If equipped)
This button turns the traction control system off and on. See
Driving Your Vehicle for more information.
The button for the traction control system
Clock
The digital clock
1. To set the hour, press and hold the hour button. When the
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desired hour appears, release the button.
2. To set the minutes, press and hold the minute button. When
the desired minute appears, release the button.
3. To switch between a 12-hour clock and a 24-hour clock,
press both the hour and minute buttons at the same time.
Reset the time as above.
1996

Steering Column Controls
The controls on the steering column and wheel are designed to
give you easy access to the controls while you are driving.
The Turn Signal Lever
You can use the turn signal lever on the left side of the steering
column to:
n operate the turn signals and cornering lamps
n turn the high beams on/off
n flash the lamps
Turn Signals
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The turn signal lever
Move the lever up to signal a right turn. Move it down to
signal a left turn. The corresponding indicator light in the
instrument cluster will flash.
If the turn signal stays on after you turn, move the lever back
to the center (off) position.
For lane changes, move the lever far enough to signal but not to
latch. The lever will return to the off position when you release
it.
1996

High Beams and Flashing the Lamps
To turn on the high beams, turn the headlamp control knob to
the headlamp ON position and push the turn signal lever away
from you until it latches. When the high beams are on, the high
beam indicator light on the instrument cluster comes on.
To turn off the high beams, pull the lever back to the off
position.
To flash the headlamps, pull the lever toward you for a moment
and then release it. The headlamps will flash whether the
headlamp knob is in the on or off position.
Windshield Wipers and Washer
To turn on the windshield wipers, the ignition key must be
turned to the ON or ACC position.
Using the windshield wiper
The windshield wipers can be set on high, low speed or interval
wipe. Turn the ring on the lever to set a longer or shorter pause
between wiping cycles.
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1996

Windshield Washer
When the lever is pulled to activate the windshield washer, the
wipers operate for about three cycles after the spray stops.
Washing the windshield
Do not try to clean the windshield when the washer fluid
container is empty or activate the washers at any time for more
than 15 seconds continuously. This could damage the washer
pump system.
85
RWARNING
In freezing weather, the washer solution may freeze on
the windshield and obscure your vision. Always warm
up the windshield with the defroster before you use the
washer fluid. If you cannot see through the windshield
clearly, it can increase the risk of being involved in a
collision.
For information about refilling the washer fluid or replacing
your windshield wiper blades, see Windshield washer fluid and
Wipers in the Index.
1996

Hazard Flasher
The hazard flasher serves as a warning to other drivers to be
careful when approaching or passing your vehicle.
Using the hazard flasher switch
The flashers work whether your vehicle is running or not. The
flashers work for up to two hours when the battery is fully
charged and in good condition without draining the battery
excessively. If the flashers run for longer than two hours or if
the battery is not fully charged, the battery can be drained.
Horn
To sound the horn, push the pad in the center of the steering
wheel. Check the horn regularly to be sure it operates properly.
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1996

Speed Control (If equipped)
If your vehicle has speed control, you can automatically
maintain a constant speed at or above 30 mph (50 km/h).
Use of radio transmitting equipment that is not Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) or in Canada the Canadian
Radio and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) approved
may cause the speed control to malfunction. Therefore, use only
properly installed FCC (CRTC in Canada) approved radio
transmitting equipment in your vehicle.
NOTE: Do not shift to N (Neutral) when using the speed
87
control. This will cause the engine to overspeed.
RWARNING
Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads
that are winding, slippery, or unpaved.
1996

The speed control switches on the steering wheel
Setting the speed control
1. Press and release the ON switch.
2. Accelerate to the desired speed above 30 mph (50 km/h)
88
using the accelerator pedal.
3. Press the SET ACC switch and release it immediately to set
your speed. If you keep this switch depressed, your speed
will continue to increase.
4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal. Your vehicle will
maintain the speed you set.
1996

89
If you drive up or down a steep hill, your vehicle may
momentarily slow down or speed up, even though the speed
control is on. This is normal.
NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transaxle, and if your speed increases above your set
speed while driving in Overdrive on a downhill
grade, you may want to turn the Overdrive off and
use Drive. You may turn the Overdrive off by
pressing the Transaxle Control Switch on the left side
of the gearshift lever. This will reduce vehicle speed
if it goes above your set speed on a downhill grade.
For the best fuel economy during normal driving
conditions, leave the vehicle in Overdrive, or resume
as soon as possible.
NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with a 5-speed manual
transaxle, and if your speed increases above your set
speed while driving in 5 (Fifth) gear on a downhill
grade, you may want to shift to 4 (Fourth) gear to
reduce vehicle speed. Depressing the clutch pedal
cancels speed control, therefore speed control must be
reset by pressing the SET/ACC or RES buttons. Speed
control cannot reduce the vehicle speed if it goes
above your set speed on a downhill grade.
Speed control is cancelled when Traction Control (if equipped)
becomes active.
1996

Accelerating With the Speed Control Operating
You can use the accelerator pedal to speed up momentarily.
When you take your foot off the accelerator, the vehicle will
return to the set speed.
Resetting the Speed Control
To reset the speed control to a lower speed, use one of the
following procedures:
n COAST — Press and hold the COAST switch. Release the
90
switch when the vehicle slows down to the desired speed.
n Tap the brake pedal. When the vehicle attains the desired
speed, press the SET ACC switch and release it immediately.
n TAP-DOWN — Press and then quickly release the COAST
switch. Each time you “tap” the switch, the set speed will
decrease by 1 mph (1.6 km/h).
If vehicle speed is reduced below 30 mph (50 km/h) by any of
the above methods, then you must manually accelerate to a
speed over 30 mph (50 km/h) and reset the system.
To reset the speed control to a higher speed, follow one of
these procedures:
n ACC — Press and hold the SET ACC switch. Release the
switch when the vehicle has accelerated to the desired speed.
n Depress the accelerator pedal. When the vehicle attains the
desired speed, press and release the SET ACC switch.
n TAP-UP — Press and then quickly release the SET ACC
switch. Each time you “tap” the switch, the set speed will
increase by 1 mph (1.6 km/h).
1996

To Cancel Speed Control
Speed control can be cancelled at any time by pressing the
brake pedal slightly. After cancelling, you can return to the
speed you set by pressing the RES switch, or set a new speed
by pressing the SET ACC or COAST switch.
Cancelling and Resuming a Set Speed
If you press the brake pedal, the speed control is suspended.
You can return to the set speed by pressing the RES switch, as
long as you did not press the OFF switch. You must be driving
at least 30 mph (50 km/h).
Your vehicle will gradually return to the previously set speed
and then maintain it.
To Turn Off the Speed Control System
Press the OFF switch.
In addition, the speed control is turned off each time you turn
the vehicle off.
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1996

Features
Your vehicle has a variety of features designed for your
comfort, convenience and safety. Read this chapter to find out
about standard and optional features.
Doors
Childproof Locks for the Rear Doors
In addition to standard or power locks, your vehicle has
childproof locks for the rear doors. If you set these locks, the
rear doors cannot be opened from the inside of the vehicle. The
doors can still be opened from the outside if the doors are
unlocked.
93
The childproof locks for the rear door
To set the childproof lock on each rear door, open the rear
door.
1996

Find the lever at the black label with word LOCKED in white
letters. Move the lever toward the inside of the door.
To release the childproof lock, open the rear door from the
outside.
Move the lever toward the outside of the door.
Power Door Locks (If equipped)
If your vehicle has power door locks, the controls to lock the
doors are on the trim panel of the front door. When you close
the doors after you set the door locks, the doors remain locked.
If the power mechanism fails, the manual door lock will
automatically override the power controls.
The power door lock on the driver’s door
Using the Illuminated Entry System (If equipped)
If your vehicle is equipped with the illuminated entry system,
the interior lights turn on when you lift the outside door handle
on either front door.
These lights automatically turn off after 12 seconds or when you
turn the ignition key to ON or ACC. The inside lights will not
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1996

Features
turn off if you have turned them on with the switch in the
dome lamp or if the front door is open.
Remote Entry System (If equipped)
If your vehicle has the remote entry system, you can lock and
unlock the vehicle doors and open the trunk without using a
key. The remote also has a personal alarm feature. The buttons
for the system are located on the hand held transmitter(s) that
came with your vehicle.
The system will work with up to four transmitters. Additional
transmitters can be ordered from your dealer.
The remote entry features only operate with the ignition in the
OFF position.
95
Remote entry transmitter
Unlocking the doors and opening the trunk
To unlock the driver’s door, press the UNLOCK button.
To unlock the other doors, press the UNLOCK button a second
time within five seconds of unlocking the driver’s door.
To open the trunk, press the TRUNK button.
1996

When you use the remote entry UNLOCK, TRUNK or PANIC
buttons, the illuminated entry system turns on the interior
lights for 12 seconds. You can turn these lights off by turning
the ignition to the ON position. The interior lights will not turn
off if you have turned them on manually or if a door is open.
NOTE: The illuminated entry system will only work when
96
the dome light switch is in the “12” position.
Locking the doors
To lock all the doors, press the LOCK button.
If you would like a signal that the doors are being locked, press
the LOCK button again within five seconds. The doors will lock
again, the horn will beep and the low beam headlamps and tail
lamps will flash.
Activating the remote personal alarm
If you wish to activate the remote personal alarm, press the
PANIC button. This will honk the horn and flash the low beam
headlamps and tail lamps for approximately two minutes
forty-five seconds. You can turn it off by pressing the PANIC
button again on the same transmitter or by turning the ignition
key to the ON position.
Replacing the batteries
The remote entry transmitter is powered by two coin type
three-volt lithium 2016 batteries (included) that should last for
several years of normal use. If you notice a significant decrease
in operating range, the batteries should be replaced.
Replacement batteries can be purchased at most pharmacies,
watch stores or at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
1996

Features
97
NOTE: The operating range of the remote entry system can
also be affected by weather conditions (such as very
cold temperatures) or structures around the vehicle
(buildings, other vehicles, radio towers, etc.). Typical
operating range will allow you to be up to 33 feet
(10 meters) away from your vehicle.
Replacing the batteries
The transmitter can be snapped apart to replace the batteries by
twisting a thin coin between the two halves of the transmitter.
DO NOT TAKE THE FRONT PART OF THE TRANSMITTER
APART. When installing the new batteries, be sure to place the
positive (+) side down as marked. Snap the two halves back
together.
Replacement/additional transmitters
In the event a transmitter is lost, return the remaining
transmitters to your dealer for reprogramming of your remote
entry system. This is necessary to prevent further unauthorized
use of the lost transmitter.
Additional transmitters may be purchased from your dealer
(remote entry system will work with up to four transmitters).
Return your existing transmitters to your dealer so the remote
entry system can be reprogrammed with your new and existing
transmitters.
1996

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC
RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING
TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE
HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE MUST
ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING
INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED
OPERATION.
Windows
Power Windows (If equipped)
Each door has a power control that opens and closes the
window on that door. The driver’s door has a master control
panel that operates all four windows.
In order to use your power window controls, the ignition switch
must be in the ON position.
The master controls on the driver’s door
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1996

Features
99
RWARNING
Do not let children play with the power windows. They
may seriously hurt themselves. Make sure occupants are
clear of the window(s) before closing.
One-touch-down window
The one-touch-down feature allows you to completely open the
driver’s window by briefly pressing and releasing the bottom of
the window switch. To stop the window before it opens
completely, press the switch again.
The one-touch feature only opens the window. To close the
window, you must press and hold the top of the switch.
Rear window lockout
To lock out the rear window switches with the master controls,
slide the lockout switch to the left. To restore individual control,
slide the switch to the right.
Moon Roof (If equipped)
You can move the moon roof back to open the glass panel, or
you can tilt it up to ventilate the vehicle.
The rocker type switch is used to open and close the moon roof.
You must press and hold the switch until the desired position is
reached. At open and closed positions, the motor will
automatically turn off. Release the switch at this time to avoid
motor damage.
1996

The map lamps and the switch for the moon roof
To open the moon roof, press and hold the rear portion of the
switch. The glass panel will move to the open position and stop.
To close the moon roof, press and hold the front portion of the
switch. The glass panel will move to the closed position and
stop.
To tilt the moon roof into vent position when the glass panel is
closed, press the front portion of the switch.
To close from vent position, press and hold the rear portion of
the switch.
Occasionally wiping the outside guide rail covers of the moon
roof with a clean cloth will help keep the moon roof working
properly.
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1996

Features
101
The moon roof
RWARNING
Do not let children play with the moon roof. They may
seriously hurt themselves.
Sliding Shade
The moon roof has a sliding shade that you can manually open
or close to block the sun when the glass panel is shut.
To close the sliding shade, pull the shade toward the front of
the vehicle. The shade automatically opens when the moon roof
is opened.
Seats
Head Restraints
If you use them properly, head restraints will help protect your
head and neck in a collision.
A head restraint helps protect you best if you position it behind
your head and not behind your neck.
If your vehicle has the four-way head restraint, you can adjust it
in four directions. You can raise it two (2) inches (50 mm) from
its normal position, or you can move it forward up to 60° until
you reach the desired position.
1996

The four-way head restraint
Manual Seats
Manual seat adjustment
102
RWARNING
Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the
vehicle is moving.
1996

Features
103
RWARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision, always
drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap
belt snug and low across the hips.
RWARNING
Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to avoid
injuring people in a collision or sudden stop.
Manual lumbar support (If equipped)
The handwheel on the side of the seatback inflates and deflates
the lumbar support pads. To inflate the pads, turn the wheel
counter-clockwise. To deflate the pads, turn the wheel clockwise.
Manual lumbar support adjustment
1996

Power Seats (If equipped)
If your vehicle has power seats, you can raise or lower the
whole front seat, move the seat forward or backward and tilt
the front or back of the seat up or down.
The seat base controls on the driver’s seat
To move the seat forward or back, slide the seat base control
button forward or back. To raise or lower the height of the seat
base, slide the button up or down. To raise or lower the front of
the seat base, slide the front of the button up or down. To raise
or lower the rear of the seat base, slide the back of the button
up or down.
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1996

Features
105
Power seatback (if equipped)
The seatback controls on the driver’s seat
To tilt the seatback forward or back, slide the top part of the
top button forward or back. To inflate or deflate the lumbar
support pads, slide the bottom of the button forward or back.
Folding Rear Seats (If equipped)
The release knobs for the split rear folding seatbacks are in the
trunk. Pull the knob to fold down the seat.
To raise the rear seatback, push the seatback upward until it
locks in place. Make sure it is firmly latched by pushing
forward and back on it.
RWARNING
Securely latch the seatback in the upright position to
prevent the seatback or objects from being thrown
forward during a sudden stop or collision.
1996

Folding rear seatback release knob
Cleaning the Seats
Leather
For routine cleaning, wipe the surface with a soft, damp cloth.
For more thorough cleaning, wipe the surface with a leather and
vinyl cleaner or a mild soap.
Fabric
Remove dust and loose dirt with a whisk broom or a vacuum
cleaner. Remove fresh spots immediately. Follow the directions
that come with the cleaner.
NOTE: Before using any cleaner, test it on a small, hidden
106
area of fabric. If the fabric’s color or texture is
adversely affected by a particular cleaner, do not use
it.
1996

Features
Mirrors
Side View Mirrors
The standard side view mirrors are manually adjusted by using
the remote knobs. The knob on each door adjusts the mirror on
that side of the vehicle. Move the control knob in the direction
you want to move the mirror.
107
The left side mirror control (right side similar)
Dual electric remote control mirrors (if equipped)
The control for adjusting the electric side view mirrors is on the
instrument panel, to the left of the steering wheel.
1996

Electric remote control mirror knob
Turn the knob back to the middle position to keep the mirror in
place.
The side view mirror on the right is a convex mirror. This
mirror gives you a wider view of the lanes on your right and
behind you.
108
RWARNING
The side view mirror on the right makes objects appear
smaller and farther away than they actually are.
Do not clean the housing or glass of any mirror with harsh
abrasives, fuel or other petroleum-based cleaning products.
Heated mirror feature (If equipped)
Both mirrors are heated whenever the Electric Rear Window
Defroster is turned on. Do not remove ice from the mirrors with
a scraper or you could damage them. If the outside mirror glass
is frozen in place, do not attempt to readjust or move the
mirror glass or damage may result.
1996

Features
Sun Visors
Illuminated Visor Mirror (If equipped)
Your vehicle may have lighted mirrors on the sun visors. The
mirror is lit by sliding open the mirror cover.
109
The visor mirror
1996

Console
Your vehicle may have a full console. The full console has the
following features:
The features on the full console
Cupholder with Full Console
To raise the pop-up cup holder, push and release the cupholder
door, then unfold the holder.
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1996

Features
Storage Compartments
Your vehicle may have several storage compartments:
n two map pockets on the panels of the front doors. The back
111
of the front seats may also have map pockets.
n a coin holder on the instrument panel
n a small storage pocket on the outside of the front seat base
Trunk
To open the trunk manually, use the oval key.
Remote Trunk Release (If equipped)
The remote trunk release is on the floor to the left of the
driver’s seat.
The remote trunk release
You can disable the remote trunk release. If you depress the
lever on the trunk latch that is marked in orange before closing
the trunk, the trunk can only be opened with the key.
1996

Disabling the remote trunk release
Remote Fuel Filler Door Release
(If equipped)
Your vehicle has a remote control fuel filler door which cannot
be opened from the outside. To unlatch the fuel filler door,
firmly push down the front of the release handle, which is on
the floor to the left of the driver’s seat. Refer to Servicing Your
Vehicle in the Index for further information.
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1996

Features
Floor Mats
Positive retention floor mat (If equipped)
(Standard in Canada)
Position the floor mat in the footwell. Place the mat eyelet over
the pointed end of the retention post from the rear and rotate
forward to install. Adjust the floor mat position to allow proper
operation of accelerator pedal, brake pedal and clutch pedal.
The positive retention floor mat
To remove, lift the floor mat just forward of the retention post
and rotate it rearward to disengage it from the retention post.
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1996

Electronic Sound Systems
115
Compact Disc Radio

Compact Disc Radio
The Compact Disc Radio combines the Electronic Stereo Radio
with the Ford Compact Disc Player.
Using the Controls on Your New Radio/CD Player
Most of the features of this unit work for both radio and CD
operation. Also, some of the knobs and buttons control several
different functions, so be sure to read all of the operating
instructions carefully.
How to turn the radio on and off
Press the “POWER” button to turn the radio on. Press it again
to turn it off.
How to adjust the volume
Press the (+/–) side of the “VOL” button to increase/decrease
the volume. Bars illuminate in the display to show the relative
volume level.
NOTE: If the volume level is set above a certain listening
116
level when the ignition switch is turned off, when the
ignition switch is turned back on, the volume will
come back to a “nominal” listening level. However, if
the radio power is turned off (with the “POWER”
button), the volume will remain in the position it was
set at when radio power is switched back on.
Selecting the AM or FM frequency band
Push the “AM/FM” button to select the desired frequency band.
When in the radio mode, pushing the button more than once
will alternate between AM, FM1 and FM2. These functions are
used with the station memory buttons described under How to
tune radio stations.
1996

1996 Ford Contour Owner's Guide - Everything You Need to Know About Safety Restraints, Features, Driving and More

1996 Ford Contour Owner's Guide - Everything You Need to Know About Safety Restraints, Features, Driving and More

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